Professionally Clean Your Teeth At Lest Twice A Year.

Hi, my name is Sara and I am the dental hygienist in Dr. Haley's office. I would like to discuss the purpose and importance of my position. My job is to professionally clean your teeth at least twice a year.

Plaque and tarter build up on the tooth surface, even below the gum line, and when you come into the office I remove it. If left in the mouth, plaque and tarter, which harbor bacteria, can cause cavities, gingivitis or periodontal disease. A cavity is actually a hole in the tooth surface caused by decay. A basic formula to know is:

PLAQUE + SUGAR = ACID

ACID + TOOTH = DECAY

All the food we eat turns to sugar. So, when plaque is left on your teeth and you then add food by eating, the process begins.

Gingivitis is a gum disease that causes the gums to get red and swollen and sometimes-even bleed. To prevent this, we remove the tarter and bacteria from underneath and around the gum line.

If this toxic bacteria is left in and around the gums, the process goes further to become periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the breakdown of the jawbone and attachments that hold the teeth in place.

As you can see, it is very important to come in for your bi-yearly dental cleaning. In addition to the cleaning, Dr. Haley will give a yearly exam to check for decay and bone loss, as well as, an oral cancer screening.

One last thing before I go, after we do our part we ask that you do yours. That simply means to brush at least twice a day and don't forget to floss daily. By working together, you can achieve optimum oral health. We look forward to being part of your success.